What should you know about E. coli food poisoning?

E. coli food poisoning is an infection that can cause diarrhoea and abdominal cramps, so focus on fluids, hygiene and warning signs that need medical care. Different E. coli strains cause different illnesses; some produce toxins that can injure the bowel and, rarely, affect the kidneys. Symptoms may begin after contaminated food or water, or after contact with an infected person or animal.

The illness often involves loose or watery stools, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and sometimes fever. Some toxin-producing strains can cause bloody diarrhoea and severe cramping. A person can spread the infection through unwashed hands, unsafe food handling or contaminated surfaces, even after symptoms improve. A clinician may ask what you ate, whether anyone else is ill, and whether you have travelled or had animal contact. Stool testing can help identify the organism when symptoms are severe, bloody, prolonged or part of a suspected outbreak.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution, especially after each loose stool or episode of vomiting. Rest, and eat small portions of plain food when you feel able. Avoid preparing food for other people while you are unwell, wash your hands with soap and water, and clean toilet and bathroom surfaces. Do not start antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeal medicine without medical advice: some E. coli infections can become more dangerous with particular medicines. Avoid anti-diarrhoeal medicine if you have bloody diarrhoea or fever unless a clinician specifically recommends it.

Seek urgent medical assessment for bloody diarrhoea, severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting that prevents drinking, faintness, confusion, very little urine, or marked weakness. Arrange prompt care for a child, older adult, pregnant person, or anyone with a long-term illness who has significant diarrhoea or vomiting. After a diarrhoeal illness, reduced urine, unusual tiredness, pale skin, easy bruising or swelling can signal a kidney complication and needs urgent attention.

Ask whether your symptoms call for stool testing, which drinks or rehydration solution are suitable, and which medicines you should avoid. Tell the clinician when symptoms began, whether there is blood in the stool, how often you have vomited or passed stool, and whether you can keep fluids down. Also mention recent meals, sick contacts, travel, animal exposure and any medicines you take.